John Edward Hodel

October 1, 1945 - March 6, 2021

John Edward Hodel was born to Clifford H. and Viola B. (Nikkel) Hodel in Lincoln, Nebraska on October 1, 1945, and grew up in Bakersfield, California. John passed away at home in Bakersfield on March 6, 2021.

After graduating from East Bakersfield High School and earning his degree at Golden Gate University, John enjoyed a long career as an accountant in both his own CPA practice and later retiring after ten years as an auditor with Kern County.

John was a faithful member of Bakersfield First Church of the Nazarene. He served in the 'Bus Ministry,' sharing Christ with the local community, and was active in various Bible study, fellowship, and mission groups over the years. For many years he served as a member of the Kiwanis Club (president 1992-93) and as a volunteer for the Jameson Center, for which he was given the Meritorious Service Award.

In 1984 John met Carolyn, a musician, teacher, active church member, and mother of three. She and John were married June 15, 1985. He instantly became "Papa" to Bethany, Meghan, and Cameron. He was a devoted husband to Carolyn and a loving provider to all four. John enjoyed many years of being Grandpa to Jeremiah, Dylan, Boston, and Niklas, and father-in-law to Aaron, Kyle, and Mary.

Besides being a promise keeper and servant of Christ, John was perhaps best known for his infectious laugh. You may also equate him with the words 'Dodger fan,' 'ice-cream lover,' and 'Santa Claus,' who he emulated every Christmas for many years, bringing cheer to kids of all ages. He also loved praise and classical music, sports cars, working out, games, barbecuing, and hosting parties.

John was predeceased by his wife Carolyn, his parents, and his sister Faith Yett. John is survived by his children and grandchildren, his sister and brother-in-law Gloria and Don Hall, and his nieces and nephews, Kevin, Amber, Andrew and Heidi.

We wish to say a special thank you to Dr. Amit Shah, for his many years of unparalleled care for John, and Bristol Hospice, for assisting us in giving comfort to John at home in his transition from life to rest.

Graveside service will be held 9:00 AM Friday, March 19, 2021 at Greenlawn Southwest Memorial Park 2739 Panama Lane, Bakersfield, CA 93313. www.bakersfield.com/obits